If you're looking for natural ways to control hunger and manage cravings, you may have heard of GLP-1 and wondered how it affects appetite. GLP-1, short for glucagon-like peptide-1, is a hormone that plays an important role in signaling fullness after eating, helping to curb appetite and support weight management.1 In this blog, we break down what GLP-1 is, how it works, and simple, natural ways to activate it. Discover how this hormone can be a helpful ally in your journey to a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. What Is GLP-1, and How Does It Work? GLP-1 is a hormone released in the gut after eating that signals to your body that food has been consumed. When GLP-1 receptors are activated, they send messages to the brain to create a feeling of fullness, helping to curb appetite and control cravings. This signal can help reduce overall food intake.1 But GLP-1 doesn’t just impact appetite—it also supports metabolic health by improving insulin sensitivity and maintaining balanced blood sugar levels, both important for healthy weight management.2 GLP-1 and Appetite Suppression GLP-1 receptors help send signals of fullness or to the brain, acting as natural appetite suppressants. They work in the body by: 1. Slowing gastric emptying—Food moves more slowly through your stomach, helping you feel fuller for longer.3 2. Reducing hunger hormones—GLP-1 helps balance hunger-stimulating hormones like ghrelin, reducing cravings.1 3. Supporting mood and reducing stress—GLP-1 activation may support dopamine release, helping to improve mood and lessen stress-related eating.4 These effects make GLP-1 a powerful tool for appetite control, whether through diet, lifestyle changes, or natural supplements that activate these receptors. Natural Ways to Support GLP-1 Activation You can naturally activate GLP-1 receptors to help control appetite without needing prescription medications. Here are some simple strategies to boost GLP-1 activity naturally: 1. High-Protein and High-Fiber DietsProtein and dietary fiber can naturally stimulate GLP-1 release, helping you feel full for longer. Foods like lean meats, fish, beans, legumes, and fiber-dense vegetables slow down digestion and increase GLP-1 secretion, promoting a lasting sense of fullness.5 2. Regular ExerciseConsistent exercise can help regulate GLP-1 levels. Both aerobic activities (like walking or cycling) and resistance training (like weight lifting) have been shown to improve the body’s sensitivity to GLP-1, supporting appetite control.6 3. Mindful EatingPracticing mindful eating, such as eating slowly and savoring each bite, can enhance the body’s natural satiety signals, including GLP-1. When you eat slowly, GLP-1 receptors have more time to signal fullness, reducing the likelihood of overeating. 4. Natural GLP-1-Activating SupplementsSome supplements are designed to activate GLP-1 receptors using plant-based ingredients, such as xanthohumolone (from hops extract) or copaiba extract (sourced from beta-caryophyllene).7,8 These can be an easy, natural option for appetite control, helping activate GLP-1 receptors without injections or prescriptions. They’re simple to incorporate into your daily routine. GLP-1 Supplements vs. Prescription Medications While there are prescription GLP-1 medications, including Ozempic® and semaglutide, that target GLP-1 receptors for appetite control, natural supplements provide an alternative for those who prefer to avoid pharmaceuticals. These plant-based supplements activate GLP-1 receptors to help regulate appetite without the side effects or metabolic disruptions that can sometimes accompany GLP-1 prescriptions for weight loss or type 2 diabetes. Bariatric Fusion GLP-ONE +: A Natural Approach to GLP-1 Activation At Bariatric Fusion, we created GLP-ONE + to provide a natural and accessible way to help control appetite and cravings. Using clinically proven, plant-derived ingredients, GLP-ONE + is formulated to activate the body’s GLP-1 receptors to promote:7-9* Reduced appetite Healthy glucose levels Reduced snacking and overeating Feeling full faster and longer Healthy mood and energy Conclusion Natural GLP-1 activation offers a gentle and sustainable way to support appetite control by working with the body’s own processes. This approach can help with balanced eating habits and long-term health goals. Whether you're working to lose weight, manage cravings, or maintain a balanced diet, understanding GLP-1 and its role in appetite control is a great place to start. Naturally activating GLP-1 receptors can be a simple but powerful way to support healthier, more mindful eating, helping you achieve and sustain your wellness goals. References 1. Drucker DJ. Mol Metab. 2022;57:101351. 2. Popoviciu MS et al. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24(13):10449. 3. Marathe CS et al. Diabetes Care. 2013;36(5):1396-405. 4. Kim YK et al. Front Pharmacol. 2020;11:1270. 5. Hira T et al. Int J Mol Sci. 2021;22(12):6623. 6. Hamasaki H. World J Diabetes. 2018;9(8):138-140. 7. Walker EG et al. Am J Clin Nutr. 2022;115(3):925-940. 8. Pathak MP et al. Phytomedicine. 2021;89:153610. 9. Melas PA et al. Int J Mol Sci. 2021;22(4):1863. *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.